The federal government is giving just over $7 million to ʔaq̓am as part of a settlement for historical injustices against the Indigenous Nation.
Federal officials said the settlement comes from ʔaq̓am’s 1942 Timber Surrender Specific Claim.
“Stemming from the 1942 surrender and sale of timber on ʔaq̓am’s Kootenay Reserve No.1, Canada failed to properly manage the sale of the timber,” said the federal government.
“Specifically, the sale of the timber did not reflect ʔaq̓am’s stated requirements, and the timber was sold at a lower rate, resulting in economic losses to the community.”
The Canadian government has provided $7,067,507 to address the issue.
“Today’s settlement marks not only a historic moment of reconciliation and healing but also a tribute to the enduring spirit and wisdom of our ancestors, knowledge holders, and the entire ʔaq̓am community, past and present,” said ʔaq̓am Nasuʔkin Joe Pierre Jr.
“Their resilience and unwavering commitment to justice have paved the way for this significant achievement. I am thankful to our negotiating team and every member of our community for their invaluable contributions.”
Federal officials said socio-economic gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada comes from decades of colonial policies, often leading to the denial and dispossession of land and resources.
“Canada’s history is clear—federal governments have not been a good partner in our nation-to-nation relationships with First Nations,” said Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations.
“Today, however, we recognize the harms caused to ʔaq̓am, and we are working to be a good partner in the development of the community today and for future generations. Of course, we still have lots of work to do, but addressing historical wrongs is key to building the relationship with ʔaq̓am.”
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